The NOAA Weather Radio Modernization Act directs the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to expand and upgrade its nationwide weather radio system to ensure reliable 24/7 emergency weather warnings and hazard alerts, particularly in underserved areas lacking cell service or local emergency systems. The bill requires NOAA to modernize the infrastructure through upgrades like internet-based communications, satellite backup capabilities, and more geographically specific alert systems, while also expanding coverage to areas at high risk for severe weather, federal lands, and communities without broadband internet access. The legislation authorizes $25 million annually from 2026 to 2031 for ongoing operations and an additional one-time $100 million in fiscal year 2026 for modernization and assessment efforts, with a required completion of access assessment within one year of enactment. The bill also mandates development of national standards for flash flood warning systems and requires NOAA to submit a 10-year staffing plan for the National Weather Service and related positions to Congress within 180 days of passage.
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